WARNING!
If you are a reader who likes to feel "Omniscient", and likes to know everything about the story beforehand…prepare to be sorely disappointed. I reveal information as the story progresses, so patience will be necessary!
Arc 2: Grimm*****
A/N: Thanks for everyone's support once again!
I apologize for the LOOOONG delay. I had written several chapters ahead...but then RWBY Volume 5 attacked!
(Which wasn't a bad thing)
It gave me a plethora of ideas and concepts to work with, and solved some writing challenges I had in my head. With the end of Volume 5, I decided to let my creative juices flow!
All the chapters I had written before had pretty much been scrapped entirely, and I just finished rewriting this one. I feel a lot more satisfied with this one than my last one, especially with the new revelations on Ozpin and company. I immediately put them into practice!
Let me share with you guys a problem I have as a writer (feel free to skip this and get on with the chapter):
Every author has got a quirk or style to their writing, as do I. As for me, I like to take "Canon" information from original series and warp them in different/alternate angles. I like to take pre-existing information and extend it beyond the intended use in an interesting way. The problem with this, however, is that RWBY is an ongoing series. This means I become a bit hesitant to write since I want my ideas in this fanfic to mesh decently well with the original series, but this becomes challenging as new "Truths" continually pop up in RWBY (e.g. Ozpin's history, character development, etc.) with every episode and volume.
So again, I apologize for the delay, but I believe it was a necessary sacrifice for better quality. Not to mention I am working full time + overtime hours, which makes writing very difficult. I'm also planning to move out in the near future, so that is also another problem.
That's all I had to say, so now I present my newest chapter!
I hope you guys look forward to it!
Also, I may go back to add more into this chapter in the future
"In Oum I Trust"- Normal Speech
In Oum I Trust-- Normal thought/emphasized words
"In Oum I Trust"- Shared thought/phone/telepathy(link)
*Sigh*- Action
In Oum I Trust- Unique Technique/Semblance/Ability
"In Oum I Trust"- Authoritative/powerful/angered speech
In Oum I Trust- Authoritative/powerful/angered Thoughts/Emphasized Words
"In Oum I Trust"- Authoritative/powerful/angry Shared thought/phone/telepathy(link)
Disclaimer: I do not own the Naruto, RWBY, BLEACH, the Re: Monster Franchise or any of its characters. I am but a simple man, with a simple desire to write a fanfiction that has been plaguing my mind.
The only thing I own in this story are my theories, original characters, and scenarios that did not exist in the original stories.
All things change with the passage of time, no matter how miniscule or grand that amount of time may be.
Whether they be seconds...
Minutes.
Hours.
Days.
Weeks.
Months.
Years.
Decades.
Centuries.
...Millenia…
...this will always hold true.
I truly believe that change is the only constant within and beyond the world of remnant.
For the ease of explanation, let us say there is a large field of nothing but grass in the distance. Now, if I were to step on the grass a second later, would it still be the same?
Of course not.
The weight of a human being would flatten it almost immediately.
But if the grass were left alone and there were no human presence...would my theory still hold true?
Indeed it will.
If you take the wind into account, a gentle breeze is all it takes to change the position of the grass from what it once was.
To delve a bit deeper, what if there was an immovable, invincible, and immortal object of any sort left in an empty space that was void of all other lifeforms, or existences. There was absolutely nothing that can interact with this object, and the same was reversed.
Is it possible for this object to change in anyway, despite lacking any external, or even internal factors?
…
Of course.
Even if it can not be seen, or the change wasn't physical in any way, the concept of time can not be fooled.
This object, despite it being immovable, invincible, and immortal, will still be different because it will be one second older than it once was. The object itself had no change, but the reality of its continued existence and length of life certainly did.
But I digress...why should anyone believe me?
As a man who's been lost within the confounds of time myself, I'd like to think that my words hold some weight. You don't walk this world with tens of different lifetimes and experiences and not gain some understanding of how the world works, you know.
*sip*
I've had the...well, let's call it "opportunity" for lack of kinder terms, to learn from countless sins and mistakes I've made in the past. It wouldn't be farfetched to say there is no being on Remnant that could top me on that account...not that it is something to be particularly proud of.
...would you like to hear my story?
Hmmm…
Of course you would.
It is a tale that stretches to the times of our world's creation, where two gods-
"Oz...how'd you get in here? And is that my mug?"
...it seems the time for fairy tales will have to wait.
Chapter 8: Time Numbs All Wounds
-78 years before Canon-
Unknown home in Vale
"Oz...how'd you get in here? And is that my mug?"
*sip*
"To answer respectively, I used the door. You really shouldn't leave it unlocked, by the way. You wouldn't want any unsavory individuals to invade your privacy, would you? And yes...it is your mug."
"You...just why are you so…*sigh*...nevermind."
The man who had entered the room had aged, pale blonde hair with a sturdy build that seemed to possess a noble, heroic air. Behind his heroic figure, however, could be seen a man who was tired and worn by the stress of war and the death that came along with it. The wrinkles he wore and the scars that littered his face and body were evidence enough to show the trials and tribulations this man had experienced in his lifetime.
He sighed in exasperation towards this eccentric friend of his, as he walked with heavy steps towards his desk.
He could never figure out how his old friend Ozbourne managed to get past every security detail and invade his personal space. While he did leave the door unlocked, that was because he had other measures of home security that he was positive would've trumped anyone's attempt at a home invasion...barring Ozbourne, it seems.
He was also very astute in observation, to the point it was greatly annoying sometimes. It was enough to drive any man crazy, and how he hadn't already lost his mind...he never knew. He could only thank the gods for their mercy on his soul.
"I have a feeling you are thinking something unbecoming of me, my dear friend. A Lien for your thoughts?"
"...I was thinking about how I might go insane if I keep hanging around you."
"How rude."
The blonde man wasn't one to mince words or make excuses. Because of this, he would usually come off as a blunt, yet honest man. While some appreciated this, it is a fact that most found it difficult to understand and handle his temperament.
Not that it mattered in this case, of course. They shared a bond of trust that many would almost consider familial. Any joke or insult was taken in stride...usually.
Both the noble man and Ozbourne now sat in silence across from each other with only a desk between them, riddled with papers and reports of varying subjects. The only sounds that could heard were the occasional sips of coffee from Oz with closed eyes, or the sound of turned pages from the heroic man as he read and signed the paperwork thoroughly.
It was only after reading a certain report did the man sigh as he proceeded to pinch the bridge of his nose in what seemed to be of fatigue and irritation.
Noticing the change in his friends demeanor, Oz opened his eyes lazily and asked, "You seem troubled, 'Warrior King' Julius. Did something pressing come up?"
The blonde man's brow twitched in irritation at hearing his old title of 'Warrior King', but denied any further remarks, lest he give in to the eccentric fellow's teasing. He wasn't in the mood to play games.
"Hah~," the heroic figure sighed heavily as he sank into his chair, "There are a lot of things that trouble me, Ozbourne. I thought I was done with the bullshit after the war had ended, but it seems like new problems arise when the old ones perish."
As Julius stated, it has been two years since "The Great War" had ended with the victory of Vale and Vacuo.
The war reached its climax when Mantle and Mistral had set their sights on Vacuo, hoping to restrict their enemies' supply line of Dust and other resources. They planned to secure the mines to restrict Vacuo and Vale's movements, while stationing a strong presence in their home territory with a stable dust production. By then, it would only be a matter of time before the two kingdoms would become flanked and overrun from multiple entry points.
The key word being would.
It was rather fortunate for the King of Vale, or Julius as he prefers to be called, since he had stumbled upon these plans when he discovered a couple of moles planted within his military camp. As a result of the traps discovery, the man had thoroughly decimated the opposing forces by cornering them with his own.
It was in this bloody, and one-sided battle that Julius was crowned the Warrior King who left countless corpses in his wake.
There were many factors besides the failed plan, however, that contributed to Mantle and Mistral's total loss in the end. The opposition did not have experience in desert combat, and had to fight within Vacuo's turbulent weather conditions.
Nonetheless, it was still the most costly, game-changing battle to have occurred. This was only made possible due to unforeseen circumstances where the spies, Echo and Wretch, failed to report to the lords of Mantle and Mistral that their plan was discovered. This seemingly small error, caused a monumental change in the tides of war, and managed to put a stop to the unceasing battles.
Following the battle, the four kingdoms met on neutral grand, and were ready to bow their heads to the king of Vale. That is also when he did something that had shocked them to their core, and turned down the role as sole King of Remnant.
He instead abolished slavery, redistributed territories, and restructured the governments. The Faunus were given equal rights, and gifted the continent of Menagerie for their own use, which may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but due to some recent reports, well...things could be going a lot better that it currently was.
In present times, Julius was in the process of overseeing the construction of something called the "Huntsmen/Huntress Academies", where men and women would be trained to combat the "true" enemies of the mortal race…the Grimm.
Of course, there were some other reasons for their construction, but those were deemed secrets that only the leaders of the academies would know about.
"And pray tell, what are these new problems, exactly?"
"You mean besides your idea of creating academies?"
This wasn't to say that Julius didn't believe in the purpose of the academies. In fact, he was all for it when the idea was presented to him by Ozbourne. Especially considering the circumstances surrounding Ozbourne, him, and...her.
No, he believed in the reason for the academy wholeheartedly, but the construction itself was very challenging. Mainly because he and Ozbourne wanted the construction surrounding the vaults to be kept as secrets from everyone, and in case no one noticed...it was quite difficult to build something in secret when said job required manpower; in other words, workers needed to know the design plans and landscape to build something. Finding appropriate personnel was indeed a difficult task, but progress was being made.
Oz did nothing to respond to the jab at his idea for 'Huntsmen Academies' and offered a nod, already knowing how tedious the task was.
"You should know what I'm talking about, Oz. The tension between human and faunus has grown incredibly thick since the end of 'The Great War'. Peace talks and protests have devolved into boycotts and riots. I fear...that war may be upon us once more."
Oz shook his head in response, and a frown of slight disappointment could be faintly seen on his lips.
"Julius, I know you had good intentions when you gave the faunus Menagerie, but not everyone can see the world like you do...you placed too much hope in humanity and Faunus-kind in being able to understand your intentions. I'm afraid this action lead to a total misinterpretation of what you sought for both races."
Julius lowered his head, knowing that his error in judgement and blind faith in believing there was good in everyone, had brought the situation to what it was today.
When humanity heard of Julius' decision to "give" Menagerie to the Faunus, they were thrilled.
Why?
For a very small few, humans felt that this was a step toward peace between the two races, and they could combat their one true enemy...the Grimm.
Unfortunately, a majority of humanity saw this action in a different light.
In their eyes, this was their "Warrior King's" way of completely segregating the faunus population, and a sign of humanity being the dominant species of Remnant.
From this viewpoint, you could only imagine how the Faunus took to this growing state of mind.
Sadness...
Disgust…
Anger…
Hatred…
Feelings and thoughts became turbulent as the Faunus began to fight for equal rights and access to the kingdoms.
Humans did not take too kindly to this.
Which now leaves Remnant in a state of disarray and negativity, while unbeknownst to society...the Grimm continue to grow in strength and number.
Oz, noting Julius' silence, walked over to his old friend and rested his hand onto his shoulder in support.
"There is no use in mulling over your mistakes, Julius. Only time will tell where this situation will take us. For now, we should concern ourselves with the academies, the relics, and Salem."
Oz could feel a shiver run down his friend's spine, and he couldn't blame him.
The grey haired man said nothing as he continued to stare at the back of the former king, noticing the anger, disdain, and…fear, in his eyes.
There was only one woman who could incite such feelings inside not only his friend, but himself as well. A women so corrupt and hell-bent on the destruction of humanity that drove a shiver down even the Warrior King's spine in how unnerving her presence was.
She was powerful, of course, but the true nightmare lied in her mind.
An intellect that challenged both Oz and Julius individually, and similarly difficult even when they worked together. It was with great turmoil and careful planning that they were able to outsmart her with the construction of the academies, to act as the foothold in protecting the relics.
In terms of battle strategy, the ex-king of Vale held no equal…but when it came to understanding the human mind, emotions, and societal interaction, no one was her equal.
"…She will only remain quiet for so long, Oz. I'm positive she is putting some things into motion right this second; I have half a mind that she incited not only 'The Great War', but is currently evolving the tension between humans and faunus as well."
Julius released a heavy breath has he sank into his chair with many thoughts rampant in his head.
"She is patient, and has all the time in the world, like you. But the same doesn't apply to me. When I'm gone…I'm afraid there will be nothing to hold her back any longer."
The man shook his head and stood, "I understand all of this, Oz…which is why I'm doing my best to help you create a safe haven for the Relics. One man can only do so much, and I won't be around to help you protect Remnant forever. It will never grow if I continue to babysit them. We need the whole world to be prepared…for her."
Silence.
Not a sound was made, as both men understood that time was short and that they would need to be prepared for the worst. There was no sense in continuing a conversation they were already aware of and preparing for.
Breaking the solemn mood, the ex-king inquired, "I think that's enough talk about world affairs for one night. Any more, and I think my hair will turn completely white. I'm not that old yet."
Oz released a faint chuckle at that. Julius used to have vibrant, blond hair and was quite popular with the ladies in his youth. But even the great Warrior King can't fight time.
"Those things aside…how's your side project coming along, Oz?"
At this, Ozbourne smiled a bit and said, "Things have been progressing slowly, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Our first meeting was a bit rough, but we soon understood, respected, and accepted each other's intentions. He is quite the training addict, and has started to form a herd far larger than it was five years ago."
"…This Naruto's character…is it something that can be relied upon?" The man questioned because he still had some misgivings about establishing contact with a sentient Grimm that was supposedly 'good', according to his eccentric friend.
These misgivings weren't without evidence, given how Salem acts and perceives the world.
Although, Oz did never say anything clearly about whether or not she was a Grimm, human...or something else.
"Yes," Oz nodded, "He kind of reminds me of you, actually. He treats his herd as family, and thinks of them before himself. I was planning to meet with him again soon. I think it's high time he heard of a small fairy tale about his race."
The man quirked an eyebrow and asked, "So soon? It's only been a year since you first interacted. Did he really gain your trust to that extent?"
Oz said nothing as he nodded once more, which was enough for the man to accept. Oz was not an easy man to please, so this fox Grimm "Naruto", must have a strong, likeable character.
"To make you go so far…what is it you see in him, Oz?"
Oz sipped from his mug once more before he answered, "Like you, Julius...he is a game-changer, and a beacon of hope. One we're going to need in the fight against Salem."
Somewhere in Forever Falls
Forever Falls...a land of red that never seemed to follow in accordance with the laws of nature. It never snowed, and there were no sweltering heat waves...it was a land limited to a single season year-round, with a few bouts of rain and turbulent winds. For as long as anyone knew, this forest has remained its crimson shade indefinitely, and likely continue to do so no matter how much time has passed.
Despite its seemingly immortal geography, that isn't to say nothing has changed within this terrain of trees and mountains.
Five years ago…
A new species of Grimm had spawned on the world of Remnant with sentience beyond its age; intelligence surpassing even some of the sharpest human beings; power that rivaled even the greatest of Grimm; and skill that tested professional Huntsmen/huntresses in how they approached Grimm combat, the likes of which they have never experienced before.
It's form was...well, a small fox.
Four years ago…
This Grimm seemed to grow, not only in age and power...but in followers as well. Unlike any other pack of Grimm, however, it was not limited to a single species. This "pack" displayed quirks and attitudes far different than what would be expected of the average Grimm. Their rate of growth was astounding as they became more...aware.
This may not seem like much, but to be aware of something means far more than meets the eye. With awareness, they can observe, learn, and correct themselves in an effort to improve and strengthen themselves...much like any human can.
The "tools" of knowledge and wisdom, that had once solely belonged to the human race, have now been given to their eternal nightmare...the Grimm.
This year, was thebeginning of change in all Grimm-kind within Forever Fall.
Three years ago…
The once small herd of peculiar Grimm began to grow in number. This growth was slow and gradual, since not all Grimm became apart of it. Most Grimm noticed the raw power that seemed to emanate from these Grimm and chose to steer clear of them when it came to territories.
Ony the most peculiar and 'unique' Grimm seemed to approach the herd. Whether this was considered a blessing or a nightmare...the Alpha would never know.
Two years ago…
The war had finally concluded. Hunters and huntresses that would crossover through Forever Falls for espionage became scarce, so times became relatively peaceful for the Grimm as they continued to develop.
It was also during this time that some of the Grimm who had been with the Alpha for the longest time began to experience a qualitative change in their existence. They were not nearly as straightforward and simple as they once had been. Beyond sentience and intelligence, they began evolve more on a mental level than a physical one.
And that change...was personality. A seemingly simple trait that was used to describe the character, thoughts, and ethics of humans began to emerge within the previously dull psyche that Grimm normally possessed. This seemed to make things more interesting for the Alpha of the pack; especially when the peculiar Grimm began to exhibit some rather odd character traits that didn't seem to stick with his previous outlook on Grimm.
One year ago…
Not much happened this year, outside the continued growth of the Grimm herd's numbers and developing characters.
There was a small encounter that the Alpha experienced with a certain huntsmen that changed its outlook on many things. What impact this encounter had...well, only time will tell.
And now...
"GRAAAH! Get back here you floating idiot!"
"I'll check you dingo's out later! Don't wanna brag, but Ganesha's got a pret-ty important job for me. Ho-ho-ho-ho!"
...we chance upon an argument between two Grimm of the same herd that simply can't get along.
The angry Grimm, named Mike, was a beowolf that was picked up along with several others by the Alpha around the time the war ended. All the beowolves seemed to possess a temperamental character with Mike being the most obvious of them. Luckily it had fellow members like Marty able to keep it in check.
The 'floating idiot' was Floyd. A Geist Grimm with an overly flamboyant and annoying personality, as well as a penchant for causing trouble. It didn't seem to care much about others besides the original members of the herd.
As the ghostly Grimm escaped from the angered beowolf, it ventured through the trees whilst greeting (annoying) other members of the herd until it reached a large clearing of nothing but grass and a towering figure in the center.
Lying on the ground was the alpha-Goliath, Ganesha, in what seemed to be a state of pondering as it stared into the distance for no apparent reason.
As it saw the geist Grimm approach, Ganesha released a tired sigh as it looked at the phantasmal troublemaker.
It was one of the youngest members, and possessed an air of immaturity that simply couldn't be changed...no matter how hard Ganesha tried.
"Floyd...will there ever be a day you don't trouble your packmates?"
Said Grimm was very animated with its hands as it answered, "Things are wayyy too boring around here. Deep down passed their walls of hatred for my very existence, is an empty, and lonely heart that appreciates my grand appearance. It's tough being the light of every Grimm's lives, but I manage."
*Sigh*
I beg to differ, thought Ganesha. Even if he were to say this out loud, he was positive it wouldn't change anything. Floyd was just...well...Floyd.
It was kind of hard to describe something that had no precedent. More often than not, Ganesha remained speechless at the ridiculous actions of the ghostly Grimm...something that was very hard to accomplish considering how Ganesha was the most educated Grimm besides their alpha, Naruto...and another he doesn't like to talk about.
Remaining oblivious to Ganesha's inner thoughts, Floyd continued, "So what did you need me for, boss? Need me to possess some boulders? Check on the humans? Liven things up? Possess some boulders?!"
"Two of those things are- nevermind. No, it's much simpler than that. I just need you to find our Alpha. He should be somewhere further west from here. Most likely at his meditation area again."
"You want me to find boss Naruto? Wouldn't it be better to send boss Kuru-...boss Kura….boss-"
"You mean Karasuba?"
"That's right! Boss Kakapoopoo! Jeez, why did our Alpha have to give her such a hard name?"
If Ganesha possessed eyebrows, it would have twitched in absurdity at the complete mispronunciation of the moody Nevermore's name. There was no way that could've been an accident...then again, it was Floyd.
If Karasuba were to hear that...well, things will definitely become quieter around here, pondered Ganesha.
The Goliath merely shook its head, "I wouldn't know. Lord Naruto gives all of us names that hold some meaning. As for what that meaning is, even I am unsure."
"Hmmm...maybe I'll ask him when I see him."
"I wouldn't." Stated the Goliath briefly before changing the subject, "But back to your previous question, Karasuba is currently at Emerald Forest. There was a rumor about there being an ancient death stalker there that was pretty powerful, and our Alpha wanted to see if they were willing to join us. As for the others, Pumbaa has also been away recruiting, and Loki...hmph. The point is I would like you to go find our Alpha and have him return for a brief time. There's something important I would like to discuss."
Completely ignoring how Ganesha's tone shifted a bit darkly when Loki was mentioned, Floyd rose his hand in a mock salute of affirmation.
"You got it sir! I'll head out in a jiffy!"
With that said, Floyd floated away until Ganesha could no longer see his appearance past the trees.
*Sigh*
Maybe that'll buy us some peace and quiet for a time. Your sacrifice will not be in vain, my Alpha, thought Ganesha inwardly.
"See ya later ya Dingos! I'm off on an important retrieval mission for lord Naruto! I bet you're jealous, right? Keep working hard, and I'm sure you'll be as great as me one day!"
"Go to hell Floyd!"
"Do us a favor and swallow a rapier wasp!"
"GRAAAAAHHHH!"
"Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho!"
Ganesha looked in the direction he heard growls and amused taunting, then turned to the ground with what appeared to be exasperation and shook its head.
My apologies, Lord Naruto...
A few miles west from where the herd resided, a fox-like Grimm could be seen meditating on a large stone within the forest of red.
A natural silence permeated through the cold air as the Grimm continued to lay there in peace, seemingly void of all thoughts and awareness toward its surround.
This Grimm was none other the the founder of the herd, and Alpha of the pack, Naruto. He let his three tails bend with the winds as his eyes remained closed in focus. Despite his sleep-like posture, he was in fact in the midst of training.
His body was engulfed in a light black cloak similar to what he possessed when he killed the two huntsmen from years ago, but anyone who was familiar with that time could see the great disparity between then and now.
Back then, Naruto was overcome with emotions and this cloak of energy acted in accordance to how he felt: Wild and untamed.
But now, it seemed much more submissive and restrained. If one were to compare it to something, then in the past it had acted like a wildfire in a forest of drywood. It could not be controlled and spread chaotically to the extent that friends and enemies could not be differentiated...but now?
Now, though the desolate, destructive, and overbearing presence it seemed to emanate was still there, it was clear that it was held back and filtered with the utmost control. This was much like how a dam maintained and regulated the flow of water with optimal efficiency for desired results...But once it was broken or released willingly, a torrent of destructive waves would crash and drown the enemy with all of its might, along with everything around it without mercy.
This calm state of being had lasted for a short while before an abrupt change had occurred.
The once calm and restrained cloak of energy that surrounded the fox's body now became a malevolent aura radiating off of his dark fur. This dark energy cried from the deepest depths of his soul, and rolled off his body with waves of destructive intent. The unbridled fury this ability wrought upon its release had no filter, and all things with life became victim to its torrent of negativity.
Embers of black dust could be seen in the chaotic aura that danced more violently than flames in the wind. If one were to look passed that fear-inducing energy, perhaps it would be a sight to admire.
It was then Naruto's face contorted from its once peaceful expression into one of pain and exhaustion.
"Kuh…! Dammit…I guess that's about all I can take for now!"
Shortly after he said this, the aura that had once surrounded his body had dissipated almost instantly, and the air of his surroundings became peaceful once again…well, as peaceful as carved earth and uprooted trees could be, he supposed.
"Hah~" He sighed tiredly, "One hour…even after all this time, I can still only hold that state for an hour...what am I missing?!"
A hint of irritation could be heard in his tone when he questioned himself.
During the course of 'The Great War' and the peace that followed after, Naruto had never stopped his pursuit in perfecting his body, as well as his abilities.
His battle with Echo, Wretch – Oh, and that Grey-haired eccentric too! – reminded him that the world is much bigger than what his eyes could see. There were people far stronger than him out there, and if not stronger, they were far more prepared than he was.
He understood that he had been lucky during his first year of life to not run into any stronger lifeforms than himself, and because of that, he had become complacent.
It was because of this complacency…that he lost a brother.
Naruto was never one to mope or sit on his ass, however, and knew that things needed to change around him.
And the first step to this, was a change in himself.
It was only because of his newly awakened abilities that things didn't end much worse in the battle against the huntsmen. In fact, Naruto was positive that the battle would have ended in his loss if he hadn't awakened to his new powers.
It was some time after that battle when he discovered that his bones and aura had no relation to each other, other than the fact that they could combine to create the unfathomable ability of turning all things it pierces into dust – hence the name, All-Killing Dust Bones. The downside to this, however, was how taxing it was on his body. If he were lucky, it would only result in temporary paralysis. If he wasn't…well, he himself may just become victim to his own ability.
A result he he didn't dare to test.
The burden was too great in his feeble body, and could only hold for so long, but that wasn't the case if he used them separately.
He found that the bones by itself was actually his Grimm ability, something produced by his own physiology, much like how the Nevermore used their feathers as weapons. Used by itself, the bones were still powerful and as strong as any blade he came to know so far, but did not have the ability to disintegrate anything he touched. That ability, only occurred with the use of his aura.
The black energy that coated his body earlier, and his bones in the fight against the huntsman was called aura, something that should have never existed inside of Grimm. He became the exception because unlike all other Grimm, he possessed a soul…and an extraordinarily powerful one, as seen when he withstood the purification process from his time in Limbo.
But aura itself shouldn't have had that kind of effect, right?
Which led to Naruto to believe that what he used wasn't truly just his aura...but his Semblance.
My Semblance...what exactly could it be?
Despite his years of training, he has made no progress in understanding his semblance. He at first thought it was destruction, disintegration, and the ability to break things down to dust, however, he soon found out that wasn't the case.
He didn't know what it was, but he could feel there was more to his ability than simple destruction. One's semblance could be said to be the manifestation of the soul, and – or more specifically – an aspect of their character. Despite him being a Grimm, Naruto didn't truly believe his innate character was one of destruction – at least, he liked to hope he wasn't.
Due to his lack of understanding, he reached a bottleneck in his training and progress became slowed. He was currently only able to maintain his aura for an hour at best, and his All-Killing Dust Bones ability was extremely short-lived with too many drawbacks to use reliably. He opted to use this only as a last resort, if the situation called for it.
"I'm probably going to have to call in a favor with that grey-haired peeping Tom."
When Naruto looks back to the time he had met that man...he can't help but sigh in annoyance. One part of it is because of how mysterious his character is, while another part was how he was able to spy on him without being noticed in the past.
"Well...I suppose it could be worse I guess…"
"There you are Lord Naruto! I've come to grace you with my fantastic appearance!"
"...Oum...why?"
"You know, Ganesha...I have half a mind to beat you senselessly right now. Care to explain why I shouldn't?"
When Naruto returned, he immediately went to find Ganesha...but not for the same reasons he was initially sought out for.
"I apologize, my Alpha. Floyd was making things a bit...tense, around here. I think Mike was about to maim him if I didn't let him leave at that time." Ganesha responded telepathically, with hesitation and embarrassment mixed with its tone.
If there was one thing that hadn't changed about the Grimm, it was their inability to speak.
Unlike Naruto who had a lifetime of experience to become accustomed to the language, the Grimm did not. They had nothing to work off of since their form of communication was done through a link between mentality.
In their eyes, this was much more efficient...which Naruto had to agree with.
But Naruto knew that understanding the language of humans would be important for the future.
Naruto didn't doubt the Grimm's ability to learn, but it would require a significant amount of time. Even Ganesha could only speak some words in incoherent sentences.
"So you moved his focus onto me? What happened to your 'undying' loyalty?"
"That will always remain unwavering, my Alpha. I would give my life before you ever lost yours."
"...and what about my sanity? Floyd wouldn't stop talking and asking me questions over, and over, and over, and overagain! What would you do if my mind broke?!"
"I believed in you, my lord."
"I don't need your belief if it's going to give me hell!"
After this conversation continued for a bit, he decided to give up and drop the subject after whacking Ganesha a few times. Nothing that left a painful impression, of course, but was more of a love-tap by an annoyed friend.
Both Naruto and Ganesha walked into the clearing where the Goliath usually rested before sitting down and began to converse in some simple topics before getting to any serious business.
"How is the progress of your training, Lord Naruto?"
Naruto shook his head with a sigh, "I'm at a stalemate right now. I think I know of a way to help, but it's something I prefer keeping to myself for now."
None of the Grimm knew about how Naruto met a human, and would meet with them every so often.
While Naruto didn't want to keep this secret from them, he knew exactly how they would react.
Ganesha still had an intense dislike for humanity, as well as Karasuba and the other Grimm. It's hard to gloss over years of being hunted and instinctual hatred toward a race you have no control over. He would know, since he too succumbed to the hate.
As for Pumbaa...the answer was even more obvious since it was on a personal level. The loss of Gordy triggered something within the large boarbatusk, something even Naruto wasn't sure of what to make of. Humans were more clear cut on their emotions, but when it came to Grimm that were experiencing them for the first time...well, Naruto had no way of understanding them unless the Grimm themselves knew what they were feeling.
Being an empath towards negativity didn't make him all-seeing, just a better sensor than most.
"I see…"
Ganesha knew something was going on behind the scenes, but he respected Naruto. More so than any other being in existence. To him, Naruto held the hopes for Grimm-kind to ascend in the world of Remnant. How this would be done, he was unsure.
Call it instinct...but it has never steered him wrong before. How else would he have lived for so long?
After a bit of silence between them, Naruto turned to look at his surroundings for a moment before asking, "I know that Karasuba is away running an errand for me, but where are the others?"
"Pumbaa seemed to be a bit jealous that you 'entrusted the bird-brain' with a task for recruiting, and not him...so he decided to venture on his own to out-do her."
The fox Grimm sweatdropped, "That fat-ass...I only sent her because Emerald Forest is pretty far and flying would be a lot further. Why does he have to make a competition out of everything?"
Ganesha tilted its head in amusement as he stared at his pack-leader, "Might I ask, Lord Naruto...when has he ever acted differently?"
At this, Naruto quirked his head in thought as he brought a tail to his chin, simulating what appeared to be a thinking pose.
He remembered the times when Gordy and Pumbaa would chase the poor Nevermore around when they first met, and would always try to pick fights with him and the rest of the herd.
It was a brief thought process before he shook his head released a low chuckle.
"I suppose you're right...but you'd think he'd relax after so much time, don't you think?"
"I suppose it's just in his nature. Both Pumbaa and Gordy were the type to challenge others to strengthen themselves...in a way, he reminds me of you. You always strive to prove something and make yourself better to make things happen. It's the reason why so many of us chose to follow you."
Naruto laughed lightly once more as he absorbed this information.
"I suppose you're right. I mean, outside of my astounding charisma, how else would I have been able to get a giant like you to follow my ass?"
Before this exchange could continue, Naruto shifted the subject back to what it was initially, knowing that Ganesha dragged on about Pumbaa for so long was to distract him from asking something else.
"Alright Ganesha, I want to know about more than just Pumbaa...so, where'd Loki run off to?"
Hearing that name, Ganesha couldn't help but to shift his countenance into one of intense dislike.
"Loki...who knows where that troublesome man-donkey went. Probably to cause another ruckus, as per usual for that hateful Nuckelavee."
"Ganesha," Naruto said quietly with a small look of disappointment, "He's a part of our herd, now. Let bygones be bygones, alright?"
Ganesha turned to Naruto with a blank look, but lowered his head in shame upon noticing the look of disappointment in his eyes.
"I apologize, my Alpha. I simply dislike the fact we care for a Grimm who challenged your authority in the past."
"It's like you said, Ganesha. It was in the past, before he was even a part of our herd. Not everyone is as accepting as you are, you need to come to terms with that."
"...I understand, my Alpha."
It wasn't long after the incident when Gordy was killed when Naruto and his herd came across the Nuckelavee they now call Loki. In fact, Loki was the first Grimm they had accepted into their herd following the incident with the huntsmen.
Naruto extended an invitation towards the centaur-like Grimm to join his herd, deciding back then that they would need numbers in order to be safe from humanity. Unfortunately, Naruto was a bit naive back then and assumed all Grimm would join him willingly, much like how the others did.
As a result, a fight broke out between Loki and Naruto with the former feeling 'offended' that such a small Grimm desired to become his Alpha.
It is a fact that Grimm grow larger, smarter, and stronger with time. So, how could he believe and accept the fact that such a tiny creature wanted to lord over him?
Naruto prevented the others from helping him, knowing it was his fight. He needed to prove that he was worthy of his Alpha status if he wanted the Nuckelavee to join him.
Another reason was because this Grimm was definitely superior to the Pumbaa and Karasuba in strength. Ganesha was more powerful and intelligent, but from the way the Nuckelavee moved, he knew that it possessed far more years of experience than the Goliath.
Goliath was intelligent for sure, but he could tell that Loki was wiser. The meaning between intellect and wisdom, though similar, were completely different.
He had no doubt that Ganesha also sensed this, and in some ways felt inferior to the demonic horse-like Grimm.
It was only after some time Naruto proved his status and strength as an Alpha which caused Loki to submit, though it wasn't done without a hint of reluctance in its eyes.
Hopefully things will get better between them soon, we can't afford to have two of our strongest members at eachothers throats, Naruto hoped for internally.
"So what was it you wanted to discuss, Ganesha? I know you wouldn't have called me from my training if it wasn't without reason."
Ganesha nodded his head, "Rather than discuss, it is more of a report, my lord. The Grimm within the area have been getting more antsy and feral lately due to growing negativity in the atmosphere. It's not located in any particular area, but rather Remnant as a whole. It feels...familiar to what it was like two years ago."
Hearing this, Naruto couldn't help but snarl knowing exactly the reason for this was.
"It seems another war is close at hand, Ganesha. Keep an eye on the herd and any Grimm in the surrounding area. We don't need any Grimm losing their lives and sanity for the mistakes of humanity."
Naruto had been informed by his human friend of this news a while back, and had sensed the changes long ago.
He sympathized with the faunus, knowing exactly what it feels like to be treated as something other than human. Both in his previous life, and this one.
He had hoped that the peace talks between the two races would continue and allow things to resolve peacefully, but it seems that reality would once again rather give him the middle finger.
"I understand, my Alpha. I will send Mike, Marty, and Larry with the rest of their beowolf squad to check the perimeter of Forever Falls."
Naruto nodded, "Sounds good. Beowolves will be the best for this considering their speed and numbers...have Floyd stay away from them though. I don't need poor team dynamic and character chemistry messing with a time intensive task. Have him...possess a boulder or something, he likes doing that. Just tell him to serve guard duty for now."
"As you wish."
"Good. When the others get back from recruitment, have them-"
As Naruto began to relay his other commands, he felt something in the distance that caused him to stop whatever it was he was going to say and turn towards the location where he usually trained.
"...Lord Naruto, you were saying?" asked Ganesha a bit weirdly, finding something off about how Naruto stopped mid sentence like that to look away at what appeared to be nothing but the usual forestry.
Shaking out of his momentary silence, he continued, "Sorry about that, I was just thinking for a moment. Just have the others meet here with you, and relay to them what I told you. For now, I will be continuing my training in the west. Unless it is a dire emergency, I'd like to be left alone for the remainder of the day."
"I obey your will, Alpha."
"I will check in with you later, Ganesha. It is nothing serious for now, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared. All the negativity that comes with war will make the weaker Grimm become more feral, something I wish to prevent...and do stop with the honorifics. Just Naruto would be fine. It's a bit tiring to hear the title Alpha all the damn time."
"I will keep that in mind, my lord."
"...you enjoy this, don't you."
"No comment, my supreme lord Naruto, Alpha among Alphas, and hope for all Grimm-kind."
"...It's nice to see you have a sense of humor...I'm outta here. Take care of things until I get back."
With that, Naruto left with incredible speed to his meditation grounds in the west.
Ganesha watched as Naruto disappeared in the distance in a blur of speed while thinking back to how strange Naruto was a moment ago.
Something is definitely a bit off. He must've sensed something...but what?
Naruto came to a halt once he reached his familiar meditation area and training grounds.
He trotted his way to the top of his rock as he closed his eyes and sniffed the air a few times for good measure, to make sure that what he sensed was correct.
After a couple of breathes, he spoke, "Alright, get out of the woods you old bastard. What kind of person sends a signal, and makes the one he invited wait?"
"How disappointing, I thought you would've known me by now Naruto. Isn't this how I was when we first met?"
"No," stated Naruto bluntly, "You were a LOT more annoying when you we first met, and it certainly wasn't as peaceful as it is now." He finished while ignoring the man's comment of 'how rude' in response.
"So what brings you here now, Oz?"
As Naruto called out, a man who was slender in figure, and dressed in a black suit came out from behind a tree with a faint smile on his lips. In his hand was a very old fashioned cane that seemed more like a trinket than a weapon...but from Naruto's experience, he definitely knew that this wasn't the case.
"Am I not allowed to pay a friend of mine a visit for no reason than idle banter?"
"...from your character? I suppose I wouldn't doubt it, but it seems that isn't the case this time, am I right?"
The man of grey hair hmmm-ed a bit in response, and said, "It's a bit of both, I suppose. I would like to ask you something first, if you don't mind."
*Snort*
"As ambiguous as always. Just say what you need to say Oz, there are some things I need to take care of with the herd, so I don't want to waste too much time with random banter. Just shoot."
"Then I won't hold back, dear friend. Tell me...how much do you believe in fairy tales?"
A/N: End of Chapter!
Let me just go ahead and skip to some of the characters that were introduced into the story.
Q: Who are Mike, Larry, Marty, Floyd, and Loki? Are they referenced from other characters or OC?
A: I guess you could consider Mike, Larry, Marty, and Floyd Canon characters...but only withing the RWBY Chibi series. More specifically, Season 2: Episode 14. They seemed interesting, so I added them to my story as Grimm.
As for Loki, he is original. The horns of the Nuckelavee reminded me of Loki's helmet in Avengers, so I gave him that name...that was really the main reason why he was named that way.
Q: You sure did a lot of info dumpage this chapter...why?
A: I sure did. And because of plot and development. If this isn't a satisfactory answer, then oh well I guess? The chapter is already out, and I'm not exactly up for redoing the chapter again.
Q: Will Naruto [blah blah] this? Will he be like [blah blah] that? Can he [blah blah]?
A: In the most respectful way possible, I won't be answering any questions on what to expect and questions about what will happen in the future. Spoiling things ruins stories guys.
That's all guys!
My next release will happen sometime...whenever I get the chance. I work and have other things to do, so I'm trying guys.
Bear with me, and I hope you enjoy the ride.
~Stay Cool, but don't Freeze.